Brotherhood FAQ

Trail to Brotherhood

We do not use a specific form to apply for Brotherhood, but the above file tells you everything you need to know. You can also check out the below link or more information about becoming a Brotherhood member. You can go for Brotherhood at the Spring New Member Induction (Pow Wow), Fall Pow Wow, Fall Fellowship or during summer camp at Forestburg. And best of all, our lodge does not charge any fee to become Brotherhood!

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What is Brotherhood membership?

A: Brotherhood membership completes the induction process. Before becoming Brotherhood, each Arrowman makes a special effort to serve his unit and commits to even more service through the Order. Brotherhood is when you are ready for more. When you have learned about the high ideals of the Order and made them part of your life, you may become a Brotherhood member.

Q: Why should I become a Brotherhood member?

A: Your fellow Scouts elected you to the Order of the Arrow for your camping ability and Scouting spirit. Your Ordeal membership is a time when you can reflect on the experience of the Ordeal, get to know what the OA is about, and decide to accept additional obligations. Brotherhood members are those who seal their membership in the Order by pledging their service.

Q: How soon can I become a Brotherhood member?

A: You can work towards Brotherhood immediately after your Ordeal by making a special effort to serve your unit and by being active in the lodge. Ten months after your Ordeal, you can become Brotherhood.

Q: Where can I become a Brotherhood member?

A: You have several opportunities each year to become Brotherhood. The lodge conducts Brotherhood ceremonies during the Spring FellowshipWeekend at Quail Hill, the Spring Pow Wow at Forestburg, the Fall Pow Wow at Quail Hill, and during Forestburg Summer Camp.

Q: Can I become Brotherhood at summer camp?

A: Yes, but you can only be inducted into Brotherhood by Na Tsi Hi Lodge at Forestburg Summer Camp.

Q: I am going to attend another lodge’s OA event as a guest. Can I become a Brotherhood member there?

A: No, you can only complete Brotherhood in your home lodge. Your home lodge is where you are making your commitment to become an active, vital member.

Q: Do I need to buy a new sash?

A: No, you will be given a new sash with the Brotherhood “bars” on it. There is no cost to you. You have earned a new sash by reaffirming your belief in the high purposes of the Order and by committing to more service through the Order.

Q: What do I need to do?

A: You will need to study the symbolism of the Ordeal and know things like the OA Obligation, OA song, and the Admonition. Jumpstart is a great place to start. You can complete Jumpstart for New Arrowmen on the OA website by clicking the following link: http://www.jumpstart.oa-bsa.org/. You will write a letter to the Lodge Secretary explaining what the Obligation means to you, recounting your service to your unit, and describing your plan for future service through the lodge.

A list of everything you need to do is in our handout called Trail to Brotherhood and in the OA Handbook. After having a conversation with an appointed Brotherhood member of our lodge, you will seal your membership in the Order with the Brotherhood ceremony.